Internet cables or Wi-Fi?

Why do we use internet cables when we have Wi-Fi? Should I save some business expenses and have my whole office wireless?

Wireless Broadband revolution:

Why do we use internet cables when we have wireless? The introduction of Wi-Fi broadband has revolutionized home and public internet, but when it comes to office workstations and environments where reliability and a stable connection are paramount, Wi-Fi alone often falls short.

Wi-Fi exhibits limitations in both speed and reliability and is also vulnerable to security threats. Surprisingly, even in online eSports tournaments, competitors must use an active Ethernet connection on their consoles instead of Wi-Fi, regardless of whether they are at home or in the office, due to concerns about connection reliability.

A comprehensive business networking setup typically includes a hardware firewall acting as a router, a switch connecting all devices and workstations, and a Wi-Fi access point securely configured as a “Guest” network for enhanced security, preventing access to the internal network. Relying solely on Wi-Fi in an office environment would complicate efforts to assign different privileges, administrative rights, and levels of data access to various workstations while restricting others.

Another crucial consideration is the reliability of wireless transmission, which can be easily disrupted. Adding an 11th workstation to a Wi-Fi network that already supports ten can significantly reduce the speed of all connections. Even seemingly innocuous activities such as using a microwave oven nearby can cause three workstations to lose internet and network connectivity entirely. In an office setting where a stable connection is essential, such interruptions can prove highly frustrating.

Some office networks also incorporate a NAS (Network Attached Storage) device for local cloud storage and workstation backups. Wireless connections are impractical for large file transfers and reliable data access under such circumstances.

Furthermore, differences in Wi-Fi protocols and security standards can contribute to unreliable connections. Older laptops and workstations may not seamlessly integrate with newer wireless access points, leading to connectivity issues arising even from routine software updates.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while wireless serves admirably in public spaces like restaurants or airports, it often proves inadequate for business or office environments. Maintaining cabled connections in residences is also advisable. Wi-Fi enhances the versatility of our constantly connected lives but cannot match the reliability of a wired Ethernet connection. While both technologies advance rapidly, they serve distinct purposes and do not compete in the same arena. wireless remains susceptible to radio interference and connectivity issues through solid obstacles like walls. While future technologies such as 5G or Starlink hold promise, for now, a stable Ethernet connection offers unparalleled speed, reliability, and security for businesses.

The future landscape may see further advancements in wireless technologies, potentially addressing current limitations. However, until these technologies achieve parity with wired connections in terms of reliability and security, Ethernet remains the preferred choice for mission-critical applications.

By recognizing the strengths and weaknesses of both Wi-Fi and Ethernet, businesses can implement network infrastructures that best suit their operational needs. This strategic approach ensures optimized performance, enhanced security, and minimized downtime, ultimately supporting productivity and growth in today’s digital economy.